Luxembourg's US Ambassador visits troops in Afghanistan

The American Ambassador to Luxembourg Robert Mandell has visited Afghanistan to meet with ISAF troops, and to see for himself the situation in the country.

14.05.2012

(CS) The American Ambassador to Luxembourg Robert Mandell has visited Afghanistan to meet with ISAF troops, and to see for himself the situation in the country.

Saying that he “learned more than I have ever conceivably learned,” the Ambassador shared his experiences of the “jam-packed” 72-hour trip with a small group of Luxembourg journalists.

Visiting Kabul, Lashkar Gah in Helmland province and Mazar-i Sharif in the north of the country, Mr Mandell said the feeling on the ground was generally positive, and one of optimism.

With 50 percent of the country under the protection of the Afghan National Security Forces, the country was moving towards self-determination Mr Mandell said, with less violent incidents and more “opportunities for Afghans to make their own choices.”

The upcoming Nato summit in Chicago will determine even further how the transition of the ISAF troops in Afghanistan from “combat to support role” will unfold.

Staying at various military bases, the Ambassador also met with troops from a variety of countries, including the US and Luxembourg. Saying that the troops were in “good health and good spirits,” Mr Mandell said he gained a new “appreciation for sacrifice” during his trip.

While the future of the country after 2014 remains unclear, Mr Mandell said he felt optimistic that “people want to be free and to provide for their families,” saying that the ISAF mission was one of empowerment, giving Afghanistan the tools for self-determination, “letting them take care of their own destiny.”